And here we are, March is behind us and it’s time for me to share an update on my #23in2023 clothing challenge. As you know from last month’s post, I started a Contentment Challenge that is currently running in tandem with my 23 clothing items added in 2023 challenge. That said, I think it’s important to share just some of the highlights & happenings of the month.
-Enjoyed a Maple Sugaring class with the boys
-Visited Discovery World with the family
-Truly lovely brunches, dinners and coffee dates as a family and with friends (and with Bryce at school!)
-A weeklong work trip in Chicago & spring break
-Read a handful of books!
-My sister-in-law’s beautiful baby shower
-The boys’ school musical performances
-Celebrated T’s birthday
-Kindergarten open house, student of the week festivities and Lenten service performances for the boys
It was an awesome month full of wonderful memories and experiences. I realized that taking the time and effort to make these experiences happen did so much more for me than buying “things.” However, the first month of any challenge can be difficult (hey, we are all human), and I wanted to be transparent on my #23in2023 challenge. Spoiler alert: I did buy some items. I’m usually very driven and love a good challenge to commit to, but I did fall a little short this month! But it’s all about progress, not perfection.
Beyond clothing (the main motivation for doing this challenge), there were a couple other purchases that were beyond the essentials. One was my annual renewal for website security on my blog. It was kind of an unavoidable cost that came up. The other thing we purchased was a patio set. I know, I know. But T and I have had a new set planned for in our budget this year (our current one is rusted, over 10 years old) and we found a great weatherproof set that was on MAJOR sale at Target so we went for it, knowing it wasn’t worth waiting till the challenge was over and lose out the markdown in price. (Also worth noting, I did this Contentment Challenge for myself, so joint purchases like this that were discussed, budgeted and well intentioned aren’t necessarily breaking the spirit of the challenge in my opinion. After all, the challenge can include/exclude whatever you feel is most appropriate for your lifestyle whether it includes, eating out, trips, activities, etc.) I also earned some “above and beyond” income from work and some side gigs, and unlike past years where I would spend it on clothing, beauty, etc., ALL of this money is now being set aside for specific things we are savings towards, and extra things this summer like kids camps & lessons, experiences, vacation, etc. I love seeing things add up and go towards what I am placing value and priority on.
But back to the clothing challenge. I’ll go through my additions and reasoning below, but I am realizing that this is truly a work in progress, and I am making gains and realizations in this challenge which I am very grateful for and will continue to work on.
Now onto my March #23in2023 recap…
This month, I filled 3 slots in my 23 item limit, bringing me to 10 items added this year.
T-shirts (solid, stripe)
Swim coverup (exact)
Sneakers (exact)
#8 Vintage short sleeve tees Old Navy (solid, stripe)
True to size, perfect length–not too cropped or long.
Old habits die hard, I tell ya. I’ve kept track of what I’ve added to my closet for years and looking back, the volume was just wild to me. So to cut back to 23 items is a MAJOR reduction in my past habits. To go cold turkey was quite hard, and I did succumb to marketing pressure. I had rewards dollars on my account and had basic tees as an item to add this year. They layer well for colder seasons and are my go-to for summer. When I saw a 40% off sale combined with my rewards, I went for it, which made them very very cheap. But then to get free shipping, I “had” to add another item, which explains…
#9 Swimsuit coverup from Old Navy (exact)
True to size.
I had this in my cart for a while, and have one other coverup, though it is quite sheer and very short. I love the length and coverage, while still bring airy and chic. I’m hoping I can avoid buying a swimsuit this summer and be content with this coverup since I can wear it for the majority of the time I am at the pool or beach, but not in the water.
#10 Velcro sneakers from Walmart (exact)
True to size.
Another example of feeling the itch to buy, but doing it frugally. I had a gift card that I wanted to spend, and had a pair of non-athletic sneakers on my list. I was eyeing up cute Madewell ones, but loved the velcro option on these and how they could be wiped clean and not have white laces getting dirty. They are so comfortable and I love the fun pop of color and think this will be a great shoe to lighten up outfits while being practical in my everyday life.
Mind you…all of these purchases were made during my work trip when I had down time, away from my family. I think it was a case of being out of my element with a bit of boredom thrown in, which looking back is helpful for me to identify as I move through these coming months. (Sharing outfits from the trip below for fun…)
Two more months to go for the contentment challenge, and 13 spots left in my #23in2023 clothing challenge! Here’s to focusing on what really matters, friends! Thanks for reading and for your support/encouragement.
Read more on my #23in2023 challenge.
Read: January additions // February additions
I get commission for purchases or clicks made through links in this post.
Leave a Reply